Plains Yellow Primrose
Oenothera serrulata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–16" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AR, AZ, CO, IA and 16 more states
Pollinators
moths, bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Yellow Evening Primrose is a low-growing perennial wildflower that produces bright yellow, four-petaled blooms throughout the summer months. This drought-tolerant native forms compact clumps and thrives in full sun with minimal water once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Plains Yellow Primrose takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Has wild, weedy appearance that most HOAs reject
- Very informal growth habit unsuitable for maintained landscapes
- Evening blooming pattern means flowers often closed during day
Wildlife value
The flowers attract night-flying moths and various bee species. Blooms open in the evening, making this plant particularly valuable for nighttime pollinators.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Plains Yellow Primrose fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.